Two-Vehicle Crash in Vermilion Parish Leaves Motorcyclist Dead

VERMILION PARISH – On Sept. 21, 2021, shortly after 2 p.m., Louisiana State Police Troop I was notified of a two-vehicle fatality crash involving a motorcycle on Louisiana Highway 343 at Louisiana Highway 697 in Vermilion Parish.
The crash claimed the life of 37-year-old Gerry John Lasseigne of Carencro.
The initial investigation revealed Lasseigne was operating a 2017 Harley-Davidson motorcycle north on LA 343. At the same time a southbound 2011 Peterbilt 18-wheeler, driven Michael Kagle of Orange, Texas, turned left onto LA 697 in front of Lasseigne causing the motorcycle to strike rear right wheels of the cab portion of the 18-wheeler.
Despite wearing a DOT approved helmet, Lasseigne was pronounced dead on the scene by the Vermilion Parish Coroner’s Office. A toxicology sample was obtained from Lasseigne for analysis. Kagle was properly restrained and was not injured. He showed no signs of impairment and did submit a voluntary breath sample which indicated no alcohol in his system.
This crash remains under investigation.
Motorcycles are smaller than other vehicles and are more difficult to see. Drivers are asked to pay attention behind the wheel and to always watch for motorcycles. For more information on the Louisiana Motorcycle Safety, Awareness, and Operator Training Program, visit http://www.lsp.org/motorcycle.html.
Troop I has investigated 40 fatal crashes resulting in 49 deaths in 2021.